Pledges sustainable medical support to Ethiopia
ADDIS ABABA – Airbus expressed preparations to deliver four additional aircrafts to the Ethiopian Airlines in the coming months while reaffirming commitment to provide sustainable medical support to the East African country.
The aircraft manufacturer made the announcement on Tuesday in Addis Ababa as it handed over Africa’s first A350-1000 passenger plane to the Ethiopian flag carrier along with a medical support package from the Airbus Foundation.
Delivering the aircraft and the medical support, Airbus Vice President of Sales for Africa, Hadi Akoum, expressed that the company would deliver additional four aircrafts in the coming months, as ordered by the Ethiopian Airlines.
Including three A350-1000 planes, Ethiopian Airlines is yet to receive 11 additional A350 planes from Airbus.
The vice president also reaffirmed the Airbus Foundation’s commitment to continue supporting the Ministry of Health.
Minister of Health Mekedes Daba (MD) on her part appreciated to the Airbus Foundation for its ongoing support with the donation of 1.5 tons of medical supplies and medicines.
She also acknowledged Ethiopian Airlines for its consistent assistance in transporting medical supplies whenever received a new aircraft. The airline has a history of providing free cargo services for humanitarian aid, demonstrating its commitment to supporting health initiatives.
The arrival of the Airbus A350-1000, which is the first of its kind in Africa, is set to enhance Ethiopian Airlines’ position as the leading airline on the continent, the national flag carrier’s CEO Mesfin Tasew said during the handing over ceremony in Addis Ababa.
To date Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of 21 A350 Family aircraft. A total of 14 additional A350 aircraft are set to join the airline’s fleet in the coming years, including 11 A350-900 and three additional A350-1000. The A350-1000 will provide great operational commonality with the A350-900 fleet, ensuring seamless integration with shared pilots and mechanics simplifying training and maintenance processes, according to Airbus.
BY MENGISTEAB TESHOME
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2024
